Senior Permitting Engineer (Architect of Record)

The Senior Permitting Engineer (Architect of Record) is responsible for leading the permitting and approval process with local authorities in Saudi Arabia, ensuring full compliance with national regulations, municipal codes, and project requirements. As the Architect of Record (AoR), the role carries accountability for stamping, signing, and submitting design documents while serving as the main liaison between clients, consultants, contractors, and regulatory bodies.

• Act as the Architect of Record (AoR) for assigned projects, taking responsibility for design approvals, compliance, and final submissions.
• Lead the permitting process across all project stages, from concept to construction, ensuring alignment with KSA building codes, municipal guidelines, and sector-specific regulations.
• Prepare, review, and validate drawings, specifications, and technical documents for submission to relevant authorities.
• Coordinate with multi-disciplinary design teams (architectural, structural, MEP, and specialty consultants) to ensure deliverables are complete and compliant.
• Develop and maintain strong working relationships with government authorities, municipalities, and approval agencies (e.g., MOMRAH, Civil Defense, SEC, NWC, etc.).
• Track approval timelines, resolve permitting issues, and proactively manage risks and bottlenecks.
• Ensure all design documentation adheres to Saudi Building Code (SBC), zoning regulations, environmental standards, and client requirements.
• Provide guidance and mentorship to junior engineers on regulatory and permitting best practices.
• Support project managers with authority-related correspondence, progress reporting, and compliance audits.

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Architecture or Civil/Architectural Engineering from a recognized university.
• Must hold (or be eligible for) Saudi Council of Engineers (SCE) registration as an Architect of Record.
• 10 years of professional experience in architecture, engineering, and permitting, with at least 5 years in KSA or the GCC.
• Proven experience in managing the full permitting cycle with Saudi municipalities and regulatory agencies.
• Strong knowledge of Saudi Building Code, zoning laws, Civil Defense requirements, and infrastructure authority regulations.
• Previous experience with large-scale mixed-use, infrastructure, or public sector projects is highly desirable.
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills with government bodies and stakeholders.
• Proficiency in design tools (AutoCAD, Revit) and document management systems.
• Fluent in English; Arabic proficiency is an advantage